Tactical Knife | Army Tactical Knife | Tactical Knives

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By Jon TEP

Introduction to the Tactical Knife

A tactical knife is what is often called a combat knife or a fighting knife. They were primarily created for military use, mostly for close combat. If you still are trying to picture what type of knife this is, think about the style Rambo would use. Actually, that's what military tactical knives might have been used for years ago, according to Hollywood, but real knives need to be efficient, as well as useful. Today, most tactical knives are created not only for use in close quarter combat, but for practical soldier purposes. While this term tends to be watered down because it's used for so many pocket knives now, as well, there are the tactical folding knives used by the public and there are military models. A good tactical throwing knife is still something of beauty to behold, although most of the time a military tactical knife is now a functioning tool often used by soldiers for clearing branches, opening boxes, and doing whatever a soldier might need.

Tactical Knife Pics

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Example of a quality tactical knife.

Tactical Knife Types | Styles of Tactical Knives

When it comes to acquiring a tactical knife, there are many different kinds to choose from.  Each country normally has a standard style of tactical knife issued to their military.  For example, the tactical knife the U.S. Marine Corp uses is the KA-BAR knife.  They have used this style since WWII.  Other units such as the Chilean Commando forces are issued the Corvo Knife as their tactical knife. 

Probably one of the most famous tactical knives is the British Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife.  It was issued to British Commandos during WWII and was often used during close combat.  The blade is double-edged and is very comparable to a dagger.  Collectors love this tactical knife due to its connection with commandos and its great design.

There are so many different types of tactical knives, due to them being issued to so many different military groups, and by so many different countries. This also means that there are going to many different types of blades, and designs to a tactical knife.  What type of tactical knife you collect or purchase is going to be completely a buyer's preference.

The Tactical Knife as a Tool

Since close quarter combat is not nearly as common as it use to be, the role of a tactical knife has changed.  These blades can be a great collector’s item, or a very good every day tool.  Part of what makes these so versatile is that there are so many different types of blades that go by this name, and we are well past the point where it is easy to determine what a "tactical" blade is exactly.

People today often use a tactical knife as a way to cut rope, do chores, and carry in case of an emergency.  If you are going to have a tactical knife as a tool, look for a quality blade made out of good steel.  This will give the knife a longer life, a better edge, and make it much easier to use.

Tips on Buying a Military Surplus Tactical Knife

If you are buying a tactical knife for a tool, also look into buying a tactical knife that has a fold down edge, almost like a pocket knife.  You can still get a great blade, but you also have the added safety features that a lock down blade mechanism adds to your knife.  

Do not worry about spending a few extra dollars on a good tactical knife.  The added money will assure you of a better knife that will hold up to everyday abuses.  Never sacrifice the quality of the materials to save a few extra dollars.  A tactical knife is made to be a heavy duty tool, and for protection, do not buy one if you are going to be cheap on the materials. 

If you are looking at collecting a tactical knife, remember to do your research.  People love to collect them, especially the knives from WWII, including the ones issued to Germans, British, and American troops.

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